Two From Newton Honored At State House Black Excellence Ceremony

NEWTON, MA — Two Newton residents were among several across the state to be honored in the Great Hall in the State House Monday for exemplifying black excellence in Newton and for being unsung heroes.

In a ceremony hosted by the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, meant to highlight achievements by members of the black community across the state, Sharon Stout and Bridget Ray-Canada were singled out for their community work.

Both were nominated by local legislators.

Ray-Canada moved to Newton about four years ago and quickly got involved with all things Newton. In 2017 She was elected to the School Committee from Ward 1. Ray-Canada and her husband have two children, including one who is about to graduate this year from North.

According to State Sen. Cindy Creem, Ray-Canada's efforts to promote educational equity, educational excellence, and strong fiscal management in her school committee campaign, the fact that she's active on the Newton North Parent Teacher Student Organization, participates in the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization for criminal justice reform advocacy, engages in youth mentoring, and is an active alumna of INROADS (an organization that helps to place diverse talent with internship opportunities) made her a natural pick.

“What stood out to me about Bridget, is the positive impact she has had on our community in the relatively short time she has lived in Newton," said Creem in an emailed statement. "She is an impressive woman who holds multiple degrees, maintains a demanding professional life, has raised two children and still has been able to give so much of her time and passion for education and social justice back to the community."

The other honoree, Sharon Stout, is the deputy treasurer of the Mass Dems, co-chair of the Newton Democratic Party and works in special events and fundraising, was nominated by Rep. Kay Khan.

Stout lives in Newton Corner with her son for many years and has been the co-chair of the Newton Democratic Party and is a trustee of the Newton Free Library. She's an active board member of Emerge, and advisory board member of JALSA. She's been an advocate for the past 15 years for many boards, social causes and political events in Newton. And she has organized and fundraised for many of the signature city-wide events under the last three mayors.

She's behind the Harvest Fair, Fourth of July and Newtonville Day. She's worked in the DA's office, Congressman Kennedy's office and a number of campaigns.

Photo by Sam Mercado/Patch Staff